Plastic surgery is a highly individualized experience. Choosing an experienced surgeon in tune with your body’s goals will improve your chances of achieving the desired results.
Individuals comfortable with their physical appearance are often more confident and outgoing. This can boost quality of life, increasing professional and personal opportunities.
The Procedure
When most people think of plastic surgery, they think of celebrities trying to delay aging or women seeking to change their breast size. But plastic surgery is also about restoring and improving function balance, and harmony.
Reconstructive plastic surgery addresses the loss of a normal appearance and function caused by congenital disabilities, traumatic injuries or medical conditions like cancer. Examples include cleft lip and palate repair, breast reconstruction after lumpectomy or mastectomy, and burn scarring. Reconstructive procedures are considered medically necessary and may be covered by insurance.
On the other hand, cosmetic plastic surgery is about enhancing features and creating more symmetry with body parts that have been damaged or injured. Choosing a surgeon with extensive experience and training in the procedure, such as Dr. Joel Aronowitz is important.
Recovery
Reconstructive plastic surgery can improve your physical appearance and restore a more natural-looking form. It can also correct congenital disabilities, severe injuries, or a disease like head and neck cancer. It can even help you regain mobility and reduce pain.
After your surgery, you may need to stay in the hospital for a night or two. You will receive home-care instructions once you wake up and the anesthesia wears off. These include avoiding heavy lifting, spending limited time on your feet and eating soft foods.
It is important to follow these guidelines because they will decrease the likelihood of complications. If you experience pain, taking any painkillers as prescribed is essential. Having a caretaker who can run errands or cook for you while you rest can also be helpful.
Cost
As you probably know, plastic surgery can be expensive. While medical insurance often covers reconstructive procedures, cosmetic surgeries generally fall on the patient’s shoulders.
Some surgeons may offer in-house financing options that allow patients to break up the total cost of their procedure into smaller monthly payments without interest. You can also create a budgeting plan to help you save money for your procedure.
However, deciding how to finance your procedure is a personal decision that should be taken into account by both you and your doctor. Before making any financial commitments, you should think about your motivations and goals for undergoing cosmetic surgery. For example, speaking to a mental health professional is a good idea if you seek to change your appearance out of pressure from a romantic partner.
Complications
Plastic surgery is an expensive endeavour, and complications can be costly. A patient must be emotionally stable and financially secure before surgery. They should be ready to take a few days off work for recovery and have someone they can rely on for help afterwards.
Surgical complications can be serious and lead to permanent scarring, infection or even death. Certain health conditions like smoking and drug use can also exacerbate some difficulties. For example, smoking reduces oxygen flow to the tissues, which can cause wound breakdown and lead to necrosis (death of tissue).
According to experts, including Joel Aronowitz MD, patients must follow their surgeon’s pre-surgery instructions closely. This includes avoiding drugs, alcohol, and smoking. Sharing plans for future pregnancy with your surgeon is important, as some procedures can adversely impact breastfeeding and lactation.
Follow-Up
Many people find that having plastic surgery changes their lives for the better. They become more comfortable, confident, and less shy about putting themselves out there and pursuing new opportunities.
People must have realistic expectations when they decide to undergo any cosmetic procedure. This way, they can avoid any disappointment down the line.
It’s also crucial to follow all of the instructions provided by the surgeon before and after the operation. For example, a patient may be asked to stop smoking or take certain medications for the recovery period to improve their results and reduce any risks. This is why attending a consultation visit with an experienced practitioner is vital.
